A protest against the possible deportation of undocumented immigrants was held on Highway 99 in Gridley.

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - About 150 Gridley residents joined a nationwide effort, “Day Without Immigrants,” on Feb. 3 to protest against the possible deportation of undocumented immigrants under the new Trump administration.

The protesters gathered at about noon Feb. 3 on Highway 99, between Hazel and Sycamore streets carrying signs, Mexican flags and accompanied by traditional music. Participants included students who opted out of school and workers who stayed home from their jobs. Drivers honked their support as they passed.             

Councilmembers Angel Calderon and Catalina Sanchez attended.               

“There will be a protest Wednesday at Sacramento and at all state capitols across the nation,” said Sanchez. “I believe that a lot of the immigrants in our nation, it’s not just Mexican, different cultures, different countries and we need to make sure that we respect their dignity. All of us have rights, even though we’re here legally, born here or undocumented. At the end of the day, we are all hardworking people. Just like we’ve had people protest for other issues throughout our nation’s history, Martin Luther King, civil rights. I believe that in the next four years, we’re going to see another chapter, if things are headed the way that they are headed.”

Irma Torres and Leti Soto were part of the gathering. 

“We’re trying for a better country, not to offend us and all that. We deserve the same treatment as you guys. We’re not criminals,” said Soto, a U.S. citizen.

Soto and Torres both indicated it was sad to watch what was happening on the news. 

Sanchez emphasized that undocumented immigrants should reach out for legal assistance, if needed.

Police Chief Todd Farr addressed Gridley City Council that night to allay any fears that undocumented immigrants living in Gridley might have about their own safety. He said that the police department will protect everyone, regardless of immigration status, and does not enforce immigration laws. 

Councilmember Calderon commented to Farr at the City Council meeting that he had not yet seen youth at the grocery store shopping for their parents who stayed home in fear of deportation, as was seen in Trump’s previous term of office.